William Jameson acquired the Marrowbone Lane distillery, in Dublin, Ireland, from John Stein, in the early 1800s about the same time his brother John was at the Bow Street distillery, also in Dublin. Brother James became involved with the business and by 1820 it was known as the William and James Jameson Whiskey Company, By about 1825, presumably after the death of William, it was fully owned by James Jameson. Eventually, by the end of that century, the William and John Jameson Whiskey companies were merged and became known as the John Jameson and Sons Whiskey Company.

Resided at Merrion Square, Dublin and he was very wealthy. His wealth and estates were inherited by his younger brother James Jameson of Montrose. It is thought he never married and apparently had no children. There has been considerable debate over date of death.